Education – Vice President Urges States to Expand Sainik Schools and Strengthen NCC Network

Education –  Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan has called for a coordinated national effort to strengthen the National Cadet Corps (NCC), stressing that improving its infrastructure and expanding Sainik Schools are essential for preparing disciplined, responsible, and capable young citizens.

Vice President Reviews NCC and Sainik School Progress

Speaking during a briefing on Monday, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan said that reinforcing the National Cadet Corps should be viewed as a collective responsibility shared by both the Centre and the States. He also encouraged every State to work towards establishing three to five Sainik Schools to meet the increasing interest among students and parents. The review meeting included Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, who presented updates on the progress of both the NCC and the Sainik School network.

Focus on Infrastructure and State Cooperation

During the discussions, the Vice President highlighted the importance of closer coordination between the Union and State Governments, particularly in matters related to land availability and training facilities for NCC units. He assured the Ministry of Defence of his full support in engaging with State administrations to address these requirements and improve the infrastructure needed for expanding the organisation’s activities.

Officials explained that the NCC has developed into a youth organisation with nearly 20 lakh cadets, playing a significant role in character building, leadership training, and national development. The presentation also outlined future plans aimed at further strengthening the organisation’s reach and capabilities across the country.

Appreciation for Nation-Building Initiatives

Radhakrishnan praised the NCC for its contribution to promoting national unity and civic responsibility. He particularly appreciated the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Camps, describing them as an effective platform for encouraging cultural exchange and strengthening bonds among young people from different regions of India.

He also acknowledged the organisation’s active participation in several public welfare campaigns. Programmes such as the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan were recognised for encouraging social responsibility among cadets. Additionally, the Vice President welcomed the formation of the NCC Alumni Association, noting that it could further strengthen the organisation by maintaining long-term engagement with former cadets.

Expansion Plans for Sainik Schools

The Vice President was also briefed on the ongoing expansion of Sainik Schools, including institutions operating under both the traditional government model and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework. Reviewing the growing demand for admission, he suggested that each State should aim to establish between three and five Sainik Schools to improve educational opportunities for aspiring students.

Along with expanding the network, he recommended examining the possibility of increasing student intake at existing Sainik Schools wherever infrastructure and resources permit. Such measures, he observed, could help accommodate rising demand without compromising educational standards.

NCC Continues Rapid Growth Across India

The National Cadet Corps has undergone substantial growth since its establishment in 1948, when it began with around 20,000 cadets. Today, it stands as the world’s largest uniformed youth organisation, with more than 20 lakh cadets enrolled across India.

According to the briefing, the organisation has added nearly six lakh cadets between 2014 and 2025, reflecting its expanding appeal among young people. The NCC now operates in more than 750 districts, extending its programmes to students across urban and rural regions alike. Through leadership training, community service, and discipline-focused activities, the organisation continues to play an important role in developing future generations while contributing to national integration and social awareness.